A Buyers Guide to Foundation

Choosing the right foundation can be a risky business. The wrong shade can leave your complexion looking washed out, while the wrong formula can magnify the smallest of wrinkles. To help you out, we've put together the ultimate guide to choosing the perfect foundation, to help keep you looking flawless and gorgeous for the year ahead.

What do you want your foundation to do?

Hide blemishes
Look for: An oil-free fluid that won't clog pores but helps conceal redness — even better if it has an acne-fighting ingredient, like salicylic acid.

Minimize fine lines
Look for: A lightweight base with soy to firm up wrinkle-prone spots, like the corners of your eyes and mouth.

Combat dryness
Look for: A creamlike foundation with antioxidants to replenish lost moisture and leave you glowy (but not greasy) all day.

Even out everything
Look for: A fluid matte base with light-reflecting particles to mask sunspots, sallowness, and under-eye circles.

Finding the right shade

When choosing a foundation, it's essential to always make sure the shade matches your skin tone in natural light. A shade that suits your skin tone under the artificial lighting of the shop floor could well turn you into an orange-skinned oompa loompa in the harsh light of day.

Blend a little of the foundation along your jaw line - never your hand - with your fingertip to get the best skin tone match

Application

TIP: When it comes to applying foundation, it's important to choose your tools and technique carefully. "With liquid foundation, it's always best to have clean hands and apply with your fingertips".

TIP: If you prefer, you can use a small brush to apply foundation to the more intricate areas like under your eyes and you can use a large, soft powder brush or sponge to apply powder foundations.

TIP: If you prefer, you can use a small brush to apply foundation to the more intricate areas like under your eyes and you can use a large, soft powder brush or sponge to apply powder foundations.